Once you go through a divorce and become a single parent, you will find that you have different friends and different opportunities for escapes or adventures. At first, going out as a single parent may be a little unnerving but each time you go out, you will feel more and more comfortable with various situations.
Making friends is very important as a single parent so you have someone to do things with, especially if you share the same interest. However, remember that you are literally starting life over so the building of friendships may take time. In addition, chances are you have been doing the same things for years. Now, you have the wonderful opportunity of getting out and experiencing new and exciting things.
Obviously, the one thing you want to avoid at all costs is the feeling of isolation. In addition to this loneliness not being good for you, it is also not good for the kids. After all, you need your own outlet occasionally. I remember after going through my divorce, I was scared to try anything. A certain movie was playing at the theater that I really wanted to see but I had no one to go with me. I got up the nerve and went alone. The interesting thing is that while there, I happened to sit down by another divorced woman who was also there alone. Since then, we have become good friends.
You can actually enjoy a number of outings alone such as going for a walk at the local park, eating in a restaurant, rollerblading, or going to a concert. True, these things may be more fun with someone but you can still have a great time while building confidence by going it alone. This will take some time and a little bit of nerve but overall, you are learning to be a stronger person.
Of course, you could also meet friends by joining a support group. Many times, support groups offer the chance to meet people and get the support and encouragement needed. However, some support groups, especially those associated with church often have regularly scheduled outings. This way, you make supportive friends while also having something to do.
Finally, while chances are you will make more single friends than you would married friends, do not limit yourself to one or the other. In fact, you should be open to married, single, male, and female friends and friends of all ages. Being open-minded offers you a better chance for building lifelong friendships with people who enjoy outings as much as you do.
Sneaking “Me” Time Into Your Day
Making Friends as a Single Parent
Encouraging Long Distance Connections